PM Shehbaz Warns Against Using Water as a Weapon at SCO Summit

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, saying the organisation is an important platform for promoting global peace and stability.

He warned against using water as a political tool, saying it should never be weaponised or used to pressure other countries.

The prime minister said South Asia could not achieve its full potential without lasting peace. He described water as the lifeblood of the region, supporting millions of people and agriculture.

Shehbaz Sharif stressed that water must not be used as an instrument of coercion or exploited for political leverage.

Pakistan has assumed the chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of State for 2026–27. Islamabad will host the next SCO summit in 2027.

During its one-year term, Pakistan will lead SCO activities and work to strengthen cooperation among member states in areas including regional security, economic development and connectivity.

The prime minister said the completion of 25 years of the SCO was an important milestone. He reaffirmed that Pakistan is an active and responsible member of the organisation.

Shehbaz Sharif said the global situation was facing growing geopolitical tensions. He added that Pakistan had played an effective role in promoting peace during regional crises and remained committed to resolving conflicts peacefully and respecting international law.